Major funding problems in the game means that ways of attracting private investment and extra government support must be found. Mackay told Kevin Ferrie in The Herald: "A lot of work has been done with specialist lawyers regarding franchising.
"The door is ajar, I think that's the safest way of putting it, but there are lots of hearts and minds to win over for such a controversial change."
Mackay also admitted to being shocked by the lack of co-operation between the club and professional games last season, the worst example being when Glasgow played Ulster in the Celtic League semi-final on a Saturday afternoon but couldn't persuade local clubs to shift kick-off times in order to maximise the home support. "When I heard that I was appalled. I really was appalled," he said.